Tail Wheel Spring Bent?

[WaiexN143NM]

Hi all ,
We just finished up phase 1 , 40 hrs test on our waiex , things going well, minor debugging. Our tail spring is showing signs of play up in the fuse socket. We originally put jb weld in both ends on the tail rod, fuse socket and tailwheel socket, it appears to have cracked and fell out of tailwheel socket, prob same for fuse socket, hence the play now. Not sure what the best fix may be. Maybe on fuse socket before installed on plane drill 2 holes , one vertical and one horizontal ? Maybe the horizontal one on the aft section just ahead of the stub rudder. ? We definitely like the larger 6 in wheel on the tail. The waiex is lsa weight so it sure bumps around here in the Tucson mid day heat and thermals. Usually only fly early or late day. The dynon auto pilot roll and pitch sure is nice does much better with the turbulence than hand flying, will be good for cross countries. The dynon has a factory designed autopilot install for the sonex/waiex. What we found that worked for us is we doubled up on the seat pan 2 large sections horiz/vert. Pieces , makes the seat pan w the factory cushions much more stable to step on to get in and out. Also the right side edge of seat pan we installed a 1/8 x 1 x 1 alum angle to keep the seat pan from bowing when someone is sitting in the right seat. Otherwise the seat pan will touch the roll servo arm . The roll servo is the SV-42 EL (extra long arm) this is required to 1) clear the elevator pushrod with the roll pushrod 2) keep the throw of the servo arm less than 60 degrees either way , other wise u cannot calibrate and set up the servos thru the efis. 20 degrees of flap takes a good pull, 30 degrees u better have had your wheaties in the morning. We are using a Oregon aero seat cushion (comfy got it at Oshkosh booth) on top of the sonex factory upholstery. U can see better over the nose on taxi , lots of room for bb hat and headset. The dynon ems-220 engine monitor we recently had trouble with the amps guage. Not reading anything or excessive readings. Sending the ems into dynon for repair. This is a problem on older units, tech support says newer units much better amp guage . Speaking of dynon , it is alot of initial effort and learning all the components, installing,
wiring, configuring , set up etc. But is very easy to use , interpret etc. the tech support people are always friendly and helpful, even if u are a beginner. Would rate dynon as A+!! Keep building , get a ride, get to the sonex fly ins, talk to the builders. Get to Oshkosh, u will enjoy the Monetts hospitality of the open house homecoming, and the hangar party. Fly safe!!

WaiexN143NM
Michael RADTKE
Jab3300
Dynon glass w a few backup steam
Rotec TBI

[pgerhardt]

Thanks for all the replies. Will work on it during may when annual is due.
Looks like it is 'OK' to bend the spring somehow and return to service.

Paul
N148YX